Australia in the ODI World Cup Final: A Familiar Tale Repeats Itself

In a low-scoring thriller that echoed a historic encounter from 1999, Australia secured their spot in the eighth ODI World Cup final by edging past a resilient South African side. The final scoreline saw Australia at 215 for 7, defeating South Africa’s total of 212 by three wickets. However, the journey to this final wasn’t the typical display of dominance we’ve come to expect from Australia in past World Cups.

The match began with a surprising twist as South Africa, known for their explosive batting lineup, recorded their lowest 10-over score in 15 years – a mere 18 for 2. The formidable Australian bowling duo of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood exploited overcast conditions at Eden Gardens, restricting South Africa’s scoring opportunities and setting the tone for an enthralling encounter.

David Miller emerged as the lone warrior for South Africa, scoring a classic century amid a collapse that left the team at 100 for 9. His resilient knock of 101 showcased Miller’s ability to stand tall when the chips were down. However, Australia’s bowlers, particularly Starc and Hazlewood, maintained control and contributed to the South African batting downfall.

Chasing a modest target of 213, Australia found themselves at 137 for 5, with spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi creating havoc. Shamsi’s dismissal of key players like Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, and Glenn Maxwell for just 1 each left Australia in a precarious position. The ghosts of past knockout matches seemed to haunt the Australian squad.

The dynamics of the game underwent a significant shift with the arrival of Josh Inglis. In what marked only his 17th One Day International (ODI) appearance, Inglis delivered a pivotal performance, contributing a crucial cameo that not only underscored his composure and control but also became instrumental in shaping the course of the match. His adeptness at consistently presenting a full face to the ball, particularly when facing the spinners, emerged as a vital factor in propelling Australia towards a triumphant outcome.

South Africa, though, fought back with Gerald Coetzee making a significant impact. With 19 runs to defend, Coetzee’s valuable two-wicket haul, including the crucial wickets of Steven Smith and Inglis, kept South Africa in the game. Despite additional chances for South Africa, including a tough catch dropped by Quinton de Kock, the ghosts of knockouts past ultimately prevailed, and Australia secured their spot in the final.

Reflecting on the match, it’s clear that Australia’s victory was not a result of sheer dominance but a testament to their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. The contributions from Inglis, combined with the disciplined bowling efforts of Starc and Hazlewood, showcased the team’s resilience in the face of adversity.

As Australia advances to their eighth men’s ODI World Cup final, set to face India in Ahmedabad, the echoes of a familiar tale resonate. The ghosts of past knockouts may have made an appearance, but Australia’s determined performance ensured that they, along with the ghosts, would be celebrating another shot at ODI World Cup glory.

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